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Gulu district takes action against deforestation: 2,000 trees to hit schools

13 February 2026, 6:45 pm

By Gift Okello

Gulu District has launched a major tree-planting drive, targeting over 2,000 trees in schools to combat deforestation. Speaking to our reporter on Friday, 13 February 2026, James Ocaka, the District Forestry Officer, said the initiative aims to replace trees lost to charcoal burning and added that planting will begin once the rains return to ensure the seedlings survive. The programme comes ahead of Forest Day, scheduled for 12 March 2026.

James Ocaka speaks on the tree-planting initiative in Gulu.

Rwot Yusuf Adek welcomed the initiative, calling for the exercise to extend beyond schools to chiefdoms to support broader re-greening efforts.

Rwot Yusuf Adek speaks on expanding tree-planting efforts – Luo.

Meanwhile, Richard Onen, a resident of Laroo-Pecce Division in Gulu City, urged community members to actively participate in tree planting to protect the environment for future generations.

Richard Onen speaks on community participation in tree planting.

In a related development, Alfred Okwonga, Gulu City Mayor, cautioned residents against degrading wetlands and encouraged tree planting as a sustainable way to conserve the environment and protect the city’s natural resources.

Alfred Okwonga speaks on tree planting and environmental conservation – Luo.

Meanwhile, Denis Odongping, a teacher at Angaya Primary School, emphasised that environmental conservation should not be left to the authorities alone, urging individuals to plant trees in their homes and communities.

Denis Odongping speaks on the importance of tree planting in Gulu – Luo.

Last year, the Uganda National Oil Company launched a large-scale tree-planting campaign across Northern Uganda, targeting more than 5,000 indigenous trees, starting at Ker Kwaro Acholi Palace, as part of its climate action and environmental sustainability efforts.